2010 Subaru Forester review

In its first full redesign since the 2003 model year, the Subaru Forester has moved closer to the mainstream than some fans might have hoped it would. The old model's boxy charm has been toned down, and what's left is a compact SUV whose driving dynamics are on par with some of the nimbler players in this segment. A few Forester diehards may cry foul, but I suspect the changes will widen the car's appeal to the market in general. The SUV remains as practical as ever, but now boasts enough refinement to merit serious consideration from anyone shopping the latest Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

Trim levels include the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L.Bean, along with turbocharged 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions; click here to see a side-by-side comparison with the 2008 model. Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive system is standard. I drove a number of configurations both on- and off-road at a press event in Southern California.

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Defrosting or defogging the windshield
Defrosting or defogging the windshield To direct warm air to the windshield and front door windows: 1. Set the airflow control dial to the “” position. 2. Turn the temperature control dial ...

Vanity mirror with light
CAUTION Keep the vanity mirror cover closed while the car is being driven to avoid being blinded by glare. To use the vanity mirror, swing down the sun visor and open the vanity mirror cover. ...

Manual transmission
WARNING ● Do not drive the vehicle with the clutch disengaged (i.e., when the clutch pedal is depressed) or with the shift lever in the neutral position. Engine braking has no effect in eit ...